| Levels of Fighting Awareness |

This refers to the fighter who waits to see what will happen. Many fighters will always be stuck here; bogged down in analyzing set techniques for set situations, always waiting for adversaries to move first, or looking to see what they may work from after being attacked. Waiting leads to anticipating something that does not happen. Fighters who are good at fakes and feints easily beat this type of fighter.
An improved form of Wait and See. The fighter may seem to move quicker, almost as if moving "with" an opponent. The fighter is more aware of the opponent's weight distribution, not just relying on movements of limbs to initiate a reaction. They watch for a shoulder dip or rise, eyes widening, cocking before strikes, body weight shifting to one side before a kick is delivered, etc. The attitude is defensive. There is still the danger of anticipating.
Fighter has learned to be aggressive and have a fighting spirit. Perception owes itself to touch as well as vision. You have to be close, and feel and sense, as much as you see. This makes it easier to perceive when there is an "opening," either physical, mental, or both, and to exploit and finish the fight. Attacks are often neutralized with natural use of the forearms, elbows, etc. Some argue there is more danger of being hit when in close, but there more danger in staying away. At long range. you are a target. At close range. you are a threat. "You can retreat into your castle and pull up the drawbridge. You might not lose, but you cannot win."
If you know conflict cannot be avoided, then strike first. It is dangerous to let an adversary you do not know strike first. The opponent may be faster, stronger, fitter, etc. You have to attack to win, so you might as well do it first. This could also give you the element of surprise. This requires a heightened state of awareness and control of the emotions. You cannot give away you intentions. You are completely relaxed, non-threatening, but ready to attack first, fastest, and hardest.
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